The letter P is ubiquitous in terms of animal nomenclature across the globe. You might’ve learned about a few of them but trust us, the list isn’t a short one. In fact, the letter P covers all types of animals, including mammals, insects, birds, reptiles, and so on.
There are animals of both types with P that you must or mustn’t have heard of. However, don’t get upset as we’re bringing you 48 illustrious animals in this article that start with P. Let’s get onto it.
List of Animals That Start with P by Classes
Learning about the animals that start with P will be easier if you categorize them by class. There are Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians, Fishes, and Invertebrates that distribute the P-animals comprehensively. Let’s check them out below:
Mammals That Start with Letter P
Birds That Start with Letter P
Reptiles That Start with Letter P
Amphibians That Start with Letter P
Fish that Start with P
Insects and Invertebrates Beginning with P
List of Animals That Start With P: Classification, Behavior, and Facts
A number of interesting animals’ name starts with the letter O. Our list of animals that start with o includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, and insects.
1. Peacock
Scientific Name: Pavo cristatus
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 15-20 years
Habitat: Peacocks are found in forests and woodlands of South Asia. They prefer open areas with trees and vegetation.
Diet: Peacocks are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, insects, small reptiles, and amphibians.
Fun Fact: Male peacocks have vibrant, iridescent feathers that they display during courtship to attract females. The “tail” of a peacock is actually its long, colorful upper tail coverts, while the term “train” refers to its long, ornate feathers.
Peacocks are known for their stunning display of feathers, especially the male with its extravagant plumage. They are large birds with a characteristic fan-shaped tail, which they use to attract mates. Peacocks are often associated with their vibrant colors and their distinctive calls that echo through the forest.
2. Puma
Scientific Name: Puma concolor
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata Average
Lifespan: 8-13 years Habitat: Pumas, also known as mountain lions or cougars, inhabit various ecosystems including forests, mountains, and deserts across North and South America.
Diet: Pumas are carnivorous predators, primarily feeding on deer, elk, small mammals, and occasionally, smaller prey like birds and rodents.
Fun Fact: Pumas are exceptional jumpers and can leap up to 20 feet high and over 40 feet horizontally in pursuit of their prey.
Pumas are sleek, powerful, and one of the most dangerous big cats in nature. They have a tawny coat, muscular body, and a long tail. Pumas are ferocious but skilled hunters, capable of silently stalking and ambushing their prey with precision and speed. Their adaptability to different habitats has contributed to their wide distribution across the Americas.
3. Possum
Scientific Name: Didelphimorphia
Type of Animal: Marsupial
Phylum: Chordata Average
Lifespan: 2-4 years
Habitat: Possums are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and urban areas. They are excellent climbers and can be seen in trees or taking shelter in tree hollows.
Diet: Possums are omnivorous and have a varied diet that includes fruits, flowers, nectar, insects, small vertebrates, and even carrion.
Fun Fact: Possums are known for their ability to play dead or “play possum” when they feel threatened. They can go into a state of paralysis, appearing lifeless to potential predators.
Possums are small to medium-sized mammals with a distinctive prehensile tail and a pointy snout. They are primarily nocturnal animals and have a remarkable ability to adapt to different environments. Possums are considered important for seed dispersal and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
4. Pelican
Scientific Name: Pelecanus
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata Average
Lifespan: 10-25 years
Habitat: Pelicans are found in coastal and freshwater environments around the world. They inhabit areas near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, estuaries, and coastlines.
Diet: Pelicans are fish-eating birds and are skilled divers. They plunge into the water from the air, using their large, expandable throat pouches to scoop up fish.
Fun Fact: Pelicans are known for their impressive wingspan, with some species reaching up to 9 feet. They also engage in cooperative feeding, where groups of pelicans work together to corral fish for easier capture.
Pelicans are large, water-loving birds with long bills and a distinctive pouch under their lower beak. They have webbed feet and are excellent swimmers and divers. Pelicans are often seen soaring gracefully above the water before making dramatic dives to catch fish.
5. Panther
Scientific Name: Panthera pardus (Black Panther refers to melanistic leopards or jaguars)
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Habitat: Panthers inhabit a range of habitats, including rainforests, swamps, grasslands, and mountains. They have a wide distribution across different continents.
Diet: Panthers are apex predators and have a carnivorous diet. They primarily prey on deer, wild boars, monkeys, and smaller mammals.
Fun Fact: The term “panther” is often used to describe melanistic leopards or jaguars, which exhibit a dark black coat due to a genetic condition called melanism. The black coat helps them blend into the shadows of their dense habitats.
Panthers are large and powerful big cats known for their stealth and agility. They have a muscular build, sharp retractable claws, and keen senses, making them efficient hunters. Panthers are highly adaptable and elusive, making them a symbol of strength and grace in the animal kingdom.
6. Panda
Scientific Name: Ailuropoda melanoleuca
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 20-30 years
Habitat: Pandas are native to the mountainous regions of China, primarily the bamboo forests of Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces.
Diet: Pandas are herbivores with a bamboo-centered diet. They primarily consume bamboo shoots and leaves, but they may also eat fruits, eggs, and occasionally, small mammals.
Fun Fact: Pandas have a distinctive black and white coat, with black patches around their eyes and on their ears. Their diet consists almost entirely of bamboo, and they have a specialized wrist bone that acts as a “thumb” to help them grip and strip bamboo stalks.
Pandas are iconic and beloved creatures known for their endearing appearance and gentle demeanor. They have a round body, fluffy appearance, and a large head with black-rimmed eyes. Pandas are lazy but fun-loving animals. They spend most of their time eating and resting.
7. Penguin
Scientific Name: Spheniscidae (Family)
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 15-20 years (varies by species)
Habitat: Penguins are primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere, with species inhabiting diverse environments such as icy Antarctica, temperate coastal regions, and even the Galápagos Islands.
Diet: Penguins are carnivorous and feed primarily on fish and krill. They are skillful swimmers and use their streamlined bodies to pursue and catch prey underwater.
Fun Fact: Penguins are flightless birds with unique adaptations for their aquatic lifestyle. They have tightly packed feathers that provide excellent insulation and help them maintain body heat in cold waters.
Penguins are charismatic and highly adapted birds that have captured the hearts of many. They have a distinctive waddling walk and are known for their comical behavior on land and gracefulness underwater. With their black and white plumage, they are perfectly adapted for life in the oceans and on icy shores.
8. Pug
Scientific Name: Canis lupus familiaris
Type of Animal: Mammal (Dog breed)
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Habitat: Pugs are domesticated dogs and are found in various human habitats worldwide. They are adaptable and can live comfortably in homes, apartments, or urban environments.
Diet: Pugs, like all dogs, are omnivorous. Their diet consists of commercial dog food, supplemented with appropriate portions of meat, vegetables, and grains.
Fun Fact: Pugs are known for their distinctive wrinkled face, short-muzzled appearance, and expressive eyes. They are affectionate and sociable dogs, often referred to as “lap dogs” due to their love for cuddling.
Pugs are small-sized, lovable companion dogs with a charming and playful personality. They have a round head, curled tail, and a smooth coat. Pugs thrive on human companionship and are known for their cheerful and affectionate nature.
9. Platypus
Scientific Name: Ornithorhynchus anatinus
Type of Animal: Mammal (Monotreme)
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 10-17 years
Habitat: Platypuses are found in freshwater environments, primarily along the eastern coast of Australia, including rivers, lakes, and streams.
Diet: Platypuses are unique in that they are semi-aquatic, egg-laying mammals with a diet primarily consisting of small aquatic invertebrates, such as insects, worms, crustaceans, and even small fish.
Fun Fact: The platypus is one of the few venomous mammals. Males have a spur on their hind limbs that can deliver a painful venom, primarily used during territorial disputes.
The platypus is a truly remarkable creature, known for its unusual appearance and characteristics. It has a duck-billed snout, webbed feet, and a beaver-like tail. Platypuses are excellent swimmers and have the ability to close their eyes, ears, and nose when submerged underwater. They are a fascinating example of evolutionary adaptation.
10. Polar Bear
Scientific Name: Ursus maritimus
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 20-30 years
Habitat: Polar bears inhabit the Arctic regions, including sea ice, coastal areas, and islands near the North Pole. They are well-adapted to cold, icy environments.
Diet: Polar bears are carnivorous and primarily feed on seals. They are skilled hunters, using their powerful sense of smell to locate seals’ breathing holes in the ice.
Fun Fact: Polar bears are the largest land predators, with males weighing up to 1,500 pounds. They have a thick layer of blubber, dense fur, and a streamlined body for efficient swimming and insulation.
Polar bears are majestic and iconic symbols of the Arctic. They have a white fur coat that helps them blend into their snowy surroundings. These animals are superb swimmers and spend much of their time hunting seals on sea ice. They are highly adapted to survive in extreme cold conditions, with specialized traits that allow them to thrive in their icy habitat.
11. Porcupine
Scientific Name: Erethizon dorsatum (North American Porcupine)
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 5-7 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Porcupines are found in various habitats across North America, including forests, deserts, and grasslands. They are excellent climbers and are often seen in trees.
Diet: Porcupines are herbivores, mainly feeding on tree bark, leaves, twigs, and green plants. They have strong teeth for gnawing and can cause damage to trees.
Fun Fact: Porcupines are known for their quills, which are sharp, barbed spines that cover their backs. When threatened, they raise their quills as a defense mechanism.
Porcupines are fascinating creatures with a unique defense mechanism. They have a stout body, short legs, and a coat covered in sharp quills. These quills act as a deterrent to predators. Despite their prickly appearance, porcupines are generally peaceful and prefer to avoid conflicts.
12. Parrot
Scientific Name: Psittaciformes
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 20-80 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Parrots are found in tropical and subtropical regions across the globe, including rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas. They have adapted to a wide range of habitats.
Diet: Parrots are omnivorous and have a varied diet that includes fruits, seeds, nuts, flowers, insects, and even small vertebrates.
Fun Fact: Parrots are highly intelligent birds known for their ability to mimic human speech and sounds from their environment. Some parrot species can learn and understand a large vocabulary of words.
Parrots are colorful and charismatic birds with vibrant plumage and a strong beak. They have a zygodactyl foot structure, with two toes facing forward and two facing backward, enabling them to grasp and manipulate objects. Parrots are social animals, often seen in flocks, and are renowned for their vocalizations and ability to imitate sounds.
13. Pangolin
Scientific Name: Pholidota
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 10-20 years
Habitat: Pangolins are found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and savannas.
Diet: Pangolins are insectivorous mammals and primarily feed on ants and termites. They have a long, sticky tongue that helps them extract insects from nests.
Fun Fact: Pangolins are the only mammals with scales, which act as protective armor against predators. When threatened, they roll up into a tight ball, exposing their scales for defense.
Pangolins are unique and elusive creatures, resembling walking artichokes. They have a slender body covered in overlapping scales. Pangolins are primarily nocturnal and have a remarkable ability to climb trees and dig burrows. They are highly sought after for their scales, making them one of the most trafficked animals in the world.
14. Piranha
Scientific Name: Pygocentrus nattereri
Type of Animal: Fish
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 10-15 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Piranhas are primarily found in freshwater rivers and lakes in South America, such as the Amazon Basin. They prefer warm, tropical environments.
Diet: Piranhas are carnivorous and have a reputation for their sharp teeth and voracious feeding behavior. They primarily feed on smaller fish, insects, crustaceans, and occasionally, larger prey.
Fun Fact: Contrary to popular belief, piranhas are not mindless man-eaters. They are opportunistic feeders and often scavenge on carrion. Their sharp teeth and strong jaws are adaptations for efficient feeding.
Piranhas are notorious freshwater fish known for their sharp teeth and group hunting behavior. They have a streamlined body, powerful jaws, and a keen sense of smell to detect prey. Despite their aggressive reputation, piranhas are an important part of their ecosystem, maintaining the balance of fish populations in their habitats.
15. Python
Scientific Name: Python
Type of Animal: Reptile
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 20-30 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Pythons are found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. They inhabit various environments, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas.
Diet: Pythons are constrictor snakes and are carnivorous. They feed on a variety of prey, such as small to medium-sized mammals, birds, and reptiles, which they suffocate by coiling their bodies around them.
Fun Fact: Pythons are known for their ability to swallow prey whole, thanks to their incredibly flexible jaws and expandable stomachs. After consuming a large meal, they can go without eating for weeks or even months.
Pythons are large and powerful snakes known for their impressive size and muscular bodies. They have heat-sensing pits on their faces, enabling them to detect warm-blooded prey. Pythons are skilled ambush predators, relying on stealth and constriction to subdue their prey.
16. Pig
Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus
Type of Animal: Mammal Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 10-15 years
Habitat: Pigs are domesticated animals and are found in various agricultural settings and farms across the world. They have adapted to different climates and environments.
Diet: Pigs are omnivorous and have a diverse diet. They consume grains, fruits, vegetables, and can scavenge for roots, tubers, and insects.
Fun Fact: Pigs are highly intelligent animals, often compared to the intelligence of dogs. They have a keen sense of smell and are capable of learning and problem-solving.
Pigs are domesticated animals that come in different breeds and sizes. They have a stout body, a snout for rooting, and a bristly coat. Pigs are social animals known for their intelligence and their ability to form strong bonds with humans.
17. Prairie Dog
Scientific Name: Cynomys
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 3-5 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Prairie dogs are found in the grasslands of North America. They live in complex burrow systems called “towns” and are highly social animals.
Diet: Prairie dogs are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, seeds, and leaves. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by maintaining grassland health.
Fun Fact: Prairie dogs are known for their intricate communication system. They emit a variety of vocalizations and engage in complex behaviors to communicate information within their colonies.
Prairie dogs are small, burrowing mammals with a compact body and a short tail. They have a distinctive barking call, which earned them their name. Prairie dogs live in close-knit communities and exhibit fascinating social dynamics.
18. Pufferfish
Scientific Name: Tetraodontidae
Type of Animal: Fish
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 5-10 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Pufferfish are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including coral reefs and coastal regions. They inhabit both freshwater and marine environments.
Diet: Pufferfish are omnivorous, with a diet that includes small invertebrates, algae, and crustaceans. They are also known for their ability to inflate their bodies as a defense mechanism.
Fun Fact: Pufferfish have a unique defense mechanism. When threatened, they can rapidly inflate their bodies by swallowing water or air, making them appear larger and more difficult to swallow for predators.
Pufferfish, also known as blowfish, are intriguing creatures with a spiky appearance and the ability to change their body shape dramatically. They have a beak-like mouth and are known for their toxic organs, which contain a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin.
19. Pheasant
Scientific Name: Phasianus
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 3-5 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Pheasants are found in various habitats, including woodlands, forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. They are native to Asia but have been introduced to other parts of the world.
Diet: Pheasants are omnivorous, feeding on a combination of plant matter, seeds, insects, and small vertebrates. Their diet can vary based on their habitat and the availability of food.
Fun Fact: Male pheasants are known for their elaborate and colorful plumage, which they display during courtship rituals to attract females. These displays often involve vibrant feather patterns and impressive tail feathers.
Pheasants are striking birds known for their vibrant colors and impressive courtship displays. Males typically have long, colorful tail feathers, while females have more camouflaged plumage. Pheasants are popular game birds and are often associated with hunting traditions.
20. Puffin
Scientific Name: Fratercula
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 20-25 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Puffins breed in colonies on coastal cliffs and rocky islands, primarily in the Northern Hemisphere. They spend most of their lives at sea, returning to land for nesting.
Diet: Puffins are piscivorous birds, meaning they primarily feed on fish. They are skilled divers and can swim underwater to catch small fish, such as herring and sand eels.
Fun Fact: Puffins have the ability to carry multiple fish in their beaks, thanks to spines on their tongues that help secure the prey. They can catch and carry several fish at a time to their chicks.
Puffins are charismatic seabirds known for their distinctive appearance and colorful beaks. They have a stocky body, short wings, and the ability to both fly and swim. Puffins are often referred to as “clowns of the sea” due to their playful behavior and comical appearance.
21. Pony
Scientific Name: Equus ferus caballus
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 25-30 years (depending on breed and care)
Habitat: Ponies are domesticated horses that are found worldwide in various habitats, ranging from grasslands to mountains. They have adapted to different climates and environments.
Diet: Ponies are herbivores, primarily grazing on grasses and other vegetation. They have a specialized digestive system that allows them to efficiently extract nutrients from fibrous plant material.
Fun Fact: Ponies are smaller in size compared to horses, standing under 14.2 hands (58 inches) tall at the shoulder. They are known for their hardiness, strength, and endurance.
Ponies are equines characterized by their small stature, sturdy build, and thick mane and tail. They come in different breeds and are often used for riding, driving, and as companion animals.
22. Peregrine Falcon
Scientific Name: Falco peregrinus
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 10-15 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Peregrine falcons are found on every continent except Antarctica. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including mountains, coastal cliffs, and urban areas.
Diet: Peregrine falcons are carnivorous raptors. They primarily feed on other birds, such as pigeons, ducks, and small to medium-sized songbirds. They are incredibly fast and agile in flight, enabling them to catch prey in mid-air.
Fun Fact: Peregrine falcons are renowned for their exceptional diving speed. They are considered the fastest animals on the planet, reaching speeds of over 240 miles per hour (386 kilometers per hour) during hunting stoops.
Peregrine falcons are magnificent birds of prey known for their remarkable speed and aerial prowess. They have a sleek body, long wings, and a hooked beak for tearing flesh. Peregrine falcons are highly adaptable and have successfully adapted to urban environments.
23. Porpoise
Scientific Name: Phocoenidae
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Average Lifespan: 10-15 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Porpoises are marine mammals found in oceans and seas worldwide. They inhabit coastal waters and are known to migrate to different areas based on food availability and environmental conditions.
Diet: Porpoises are carnivorous and primarily feed on fish, squid, and crustaceans. They use echolocation to locate and capture their prey in the water.
Fun Fact: Porpoises are excellent swimmers and can reach impressive speeds. They often swim in groups called pods, which can consist of a few individuals or dozens of porpoises.
Porpoises are small cetaceans closely related to dolphins. They have a streamlined body, a rounded head, and a triangular dorsal fin. Porpoises are known for their playful behavior and their ability to swim swiftly through the water.
24. Poison Dart Frog
Scientific Name: Dendrobatidae (Family)
Type of Animal: Amphibian
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 3-15 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Poison dart frogs are found in the rainforests of Central and South America. They inhabit the forest floor and are often associated with humid and tropical environments.
Diet: Poison dart frogs are insectivores, primarily feeding on small invertebrates such as ants, termites, mites, and beetles. Some species have specialized diets, relying on specific types of ants or other small arthropods.
Fun Fact: Poison dart frogs derive their toxicity from their diet in the wild. The bright colors of their skin serve as a warning to predators that they are highly toxic and should be avoided.
Poison dart frogs are small, brightly colored amphibians known for their vibrant patterns and potent toxins. Their striking colors serve as a defense mechanism, warning potential predators of their toxicity. Poison dart frogs are relatively small in size but have a significant impact on their ecosystem as indicators of forest health.
25. Pine Marten
Scientific Name: Martes martes
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 8-10 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Pine martens are found in forests and woodlands across Europe and parts of Asia. They prefer mature forests with dense vegetation and tree cover.
Diet: Pine martens are carnivores, with a diet that includes small mammals, birds, eggs, insects, and fruits. They are skilled climbers and are known to hunt in trees.
Fun Fact: Pine martens have a unique adaptation called “toothcomb,” which is a specialized arrangement of teeth used for grooming their fur and extracting parasites.
Pine martens are agile and elusive mammals with slender bodies, bushy tails, and a luxurious coat of fur. They are known for their excellent climbing abilities and are often found in forested areas, where they play a vital role in maintaining balanced predator-prey relationships.
26. Proboscis Monkey
Scientific Name: Nasalis larvatus
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 15-20 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Proboscis monkeys are native to the mangrove swamps and riverine forests of Borneo. They are arboreal and depend on forests near rivers for their survival.
Diet: Proboscis monkeys are herbivorous, primarily feeding on leaves, fruits, flowers, and seeds. They have a specialized digestive system that allows them to efficiently extract nutrients from their plant-based diet.
Fun Fact: Proboscis monkeys are known for their distinctive large noses, especially in males. The size of the nose can vary among individuals and plays a role in attracting mates and amplifying vocalizations.
Proboscis monkeys are unique primates with a prominent nose and a pot-bellied appearance. They have a reddish-brown coat, long limbs, and a prehensile tail. Proboscis monkeys are skilled swimmers and are often found near water bodies, where they forage for food and socialize.
27. Pronghorn
Scientific Name: Antilocapra americana
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 10-15 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Pronghorns are found in the grasslands and shrublands of North America. They are well adapted to open habitats and can be seen in prairies, sagebrush steppes, and desert grasslands.
Diet: Pronghorns are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, shrubs, and other vegetation. They have a specialized digestive system that allows them to extract nutrients from low-quality forage.
Fun Fact: Pronghorns are known for their incredible speed and agility. They are the second-fastest land mammal, capable of reaching speeds up to 55 miles per hour (88 kilometers per hour).
Pronghorns are unique and graceful mammals known for their speed and agility. They have a tan-colored coat, a slender body, and distinctive branched horns in both males and females. Pronghorns are a symbol of the American West and are often associated with wide-open spaces and grassland ecosystems.
28. Paddlefish
Scientific Name: Polyodontidae
Type of Animal: Fish Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 30-50 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Paddlefish are found in freshwater rivers and lakes in North America and Asia. They prefer deep, slow-moving waters and are often associated with large river systems.
Diet: Paddlefish are filter feeders, using their elongated snout to filter plankton and small invertebrates from the water. They have specialized gill rakers that allow them to efficiently capture their food.
Fun Fact: Paddlefish are considered living fossils, with a lineage dating back over 300 million years. They are one of the oldest and most primitive fish species on Earth.
Paddlefish are ancient and peculiar-looking fish characterized by their long, paddle-like snouts and streamlined bodies. They have a cartilaginous skeleton and lack scales. Paddlefish are of ecological importance as filter feeders, contributing to the health and balance of freshwater ecosystems.
29. Pygmy Marmoset
Scientific Name: Cebuella pygmaea
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 10-15 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Pygmy marmosets are found in the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin. They inhabit the upper canopy levels of trees.
Diet: Pygmy marmosets are omnivorous, feeding on a varied diet that includes tree sap, nectar, fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. They have specialized teeth for gouging tree bark and obtaining sap.
Fun Fact: Pygmy marmosets are the smallest known primates, with an average weight of around 100 grams (3.5 ounces). They have specialized claws that allow them to cling to tree trunks and move easily through the forest canopy.
Pygmy marmosets are adorable and diminutive primates known for their small size and agility. They have a long tail, a tufted mane-like appearance, and claws adapted for an arboreal lifestyle. Pygmy marmosets exhibit complex social behaviors and are highly vocal within their groups.
30. Painted Turtle
Scientific Name: Chrysemys picta
Type of Animal: Reptile
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 20-40 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Painted turtles are found in freshwater habitats across North America. They inhabit ponds, lakes, rivers, and wetlands with ample vegetation and basking sites.
Diet: Painted turtles are omnivorous, feeding on a combination of plants, insects, small fish, and amphibians. They are opportunistic feeders, taking advantage of available food sources.
Fun Fact: Painted turtles are well adapted to aquatic life. They have webbed feet and can swim gracefully. They are also known for their ability to bask in the sun, often seen stacked on logs or rocks to absorb warmth.
Painted turtles are colorful and attractive turtles characterized by their vibrant shell patterns. They have a flat shell, a pointed snout, and yellow markings on their head, neck, and limbs. Painted turtles are important members of freshwater ecosystems and are often encountered basking in the sun near water bodies.
31. Partridge
Scientific Name: Perdix perdix
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 1-3 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Partridges are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and agricultural fields. They prefer areas with shrubs and dense vegetation for cover.
Diet: Partridges are omnivores, feeding on a combination of seeds, fruits, insects, and small invertebrates. They forage on the ground and use their beaks to search for food.
Fun Fact: Partridges are well-known game birds and are often hunted for sport. They are also known for their distinctive drumming calls during courtship displays.
Partridges are medium-sized birds with rounded bodies, short wings, and strong legs. They have mottled plumage that provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. Partridges are ground-dwelling birds that can fly short distances when necessary.
32. Potoo Bird
Scientific Name: Nyctibius
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 10-20 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Potoo birds are primarily found in Central and South America, inhabiting tropical forests and woodlands. They are nocturnal birds and are well adapted to a life in the treetops.
Diet: Potoo birds are insectivorous, feeding on a diet consisting mainly of insects such as beetles, moths, and grasshoppers. They are skilled at catching insects in mid-air using their wide beaks.
Fun Fact: Potoo birds have a unique camouflage strategy. During the day, they perch vertically on tree branches, relying on their cryptic plumage and their ability to blend in with the bark.
Potoo birds are peculiar-looking nocturnal birds known for their large eyes, wide beaks, and cryptic plumage. They have a distinct upright posture and rely on camouflage to avoid detection during the day. Potoo birds are skilled hunters and are most active at night.
33. Peacock Spider
Scientific Name: Maratus
Type of Animal: Arachnid
Phylum: Arthropoda
Lifespan: 1-2 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Peacock spiders are found in various habitats across Australia, including grasslands, woodlands, and coastal areas. They often inhabit low-lying vegetation and leaf litter.
Diet: Peacock spiders are carnivorous, preying on small insects such as flies, ants, and beetles. They use their specialized jaws to capture and immobilize their prey.
Fun Fact: Male peacock spiders are renowned for their elaborate courtship displays. They have vibrant and intricate patterns on their abdomen, which they use to attract females during mating rituals.
Peacock spiders are tiny and visually striking arachnids known for their colorful and patterned abdomens. They have a unique courtship behavior that involves intricate dances and displays. Peacock spiders are harmless to humans and play a role in controlling insect populations.
34. Pika
Scientific Name: Ochotona
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 3-7 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Pikas are found in mountainous regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. They inhabit rocky slopes and alpine meadows, often close to snow patches.
Diet: Pikas are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, sedges, and other alpine plants. They have specialized cheek pouches that allow them to store food for later consumption.
Fun Fact: Pikas are well adapted to cold environments and have a high tolerance for low temperatures. They are known for their distinctive “haystacks” where they store dried vegetation for winter survival.
Pikas are small and round mammals with short limbs and rounded ears. They have dense fur that helps insulate them in their cold alpine habitats. Pikas are highly vocal and use sharp calls to communicate with each other and warn of potential threats.
35. Polyphemus Moth
Scientific Name: Antheraea polyphemus
Type of Animal: Insect
Phylum: Arthropoda
Lifespan: 1-2 weeks (as an adult)
Habitat: Polyphemus moths are found in deciduous forests and woodlands of North America. They are nocturnal and are attracted to light sources at night.
Diet: Polyphemus moth caterpillars feed on a variety of tree leaves, including oak, maple, birch, and willow. Adult moths do not feed and rely on stored energy reserves.
Fun Fact: Polyphemus moths are named after the one-eyed giant from Greek mythology, Polyphemus. They have a distinctive “eye” pattern on their wings, resembling a large eye-spot.
Polyphemus moths are large and majestic insects with wingspans reaching up to 6 inches (15 centimeters). They have a reddish-brown coloration and prominent eye-like markings on their wings. Polyphemus moths are a symbol of beauty and wonder in the insect world.
36. Painted Lady Butterfly
Scientific Name: Vanessa cardui
Type of Animal: Insect
Phylum: Arthropoda
Lifespan: 2-4 weeks (as an adult)
Habitat: Painted lady butterflies are found in diverse habitats worldwide, including meadows, gardens, fields, and open landscapes. They are known for their migratory behavior.
Diet: Painted lady caterpillars feed on various host plants, including thistles, mallow, and asters. Adult butterflies feed on flower nectar, using their long proboscis to extract the sweet liquid.
Fun Fact: Painted lady butterflies undertake long-distance migrations, traveling thousands of miles between their breeding and overwintering grounds. They are among the most widespread butterfly species in the world.
Painted lady butterflies are elegant and delicate insects with distinctive orange and black patterns on their wings. They have a light and agile flight, making them a common sight in gardens and meadows during the summer months.
37. Pink Fairy Armadillo
Scientific Name: Chlamyphorus truncatus
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 4-5 years (in the wild) Habitat: Pink fairy armadillos are found in the sandy plains and grasslands of central Argentina. They prefer dry and sandy soils where they can burrow.
Diet: Pink fairy armadillos are insectivores, feeding primarily on ants and other small invertebrates. They use their sharp claws to dig and uncover their prey.
Fun Fact: Pink fairy armadillos have a unique protective armor made up of bony plates covered by a thick layer of skin and scales. They are also known for their ability to quickly bury themselves in the sand when threatened.
Pink fairy armadillos are small and elusive mammals with a pinkish hue and a flattened shell-like body. They have a long snout, small eyes, and powerful digging claws. Pink fairy armadillos are rarely seen due to their secretive nature and burrowing lifestyle.
38. Pekin Duck
Scientific Name: Anas platyrhynchos domesticus
Type of Animal: Bird
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 5-10 years (in captivity)
Habitat: Pekin ducks are domesticated birds and are commonly found in farms and agricultural settings worldwide. They require access to water for swimming and foraging.
Diet: Pekin ducks are omnivorous, consuming a diet that includes aquatic plants, insects, small fish, and commercial duck feed. They have a broad bill designed for filtering and gathering food from water and soil.
Fun Fact: Pekin ducks are one of the most widely raised domestic duck breeds for meat production. They are known for their fast growth rate and plump meat.
Pekin ducks are large domesticated birds with a distinctive white plumage, orange beak, and webbed feet. They have a docile temperament and are popular among farmers and backyard poultry keepers.
39. Peccary
Scientific Name: Tayassuidae
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 8-12 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Peccaries are found in various habitats across the Americas, including forests, grasslands, and deserts. They are adaptable and can thrive in diverse environments.
Diet: Peccaries are omnivores, feeding on a combination of plant material, such as fruits, nuts, roots, and leaves, as well as small animals, insects, and carrion.
Fun Fact: Peccaries are social animals and live in groups called “sounders.” They communicate through vocalizations and scent marking, using specialized scent glands.
Peccaries are medium-sized mammals resembling pigs, but they are not closely related. They have a compact body, a pig-like snout, and sharp canine teeth. Peccaries play important roles in seed dispersal and shaping plant communities in their native habitats.
40. Pygmy Hippo
Scientific Name: Choeropsis liberiensis
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 30-40 years (in captivity)
Habitat: Pygmy hippos are found in the rainforests and swamps of West Africa, primarily in Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Sierra Leone. They prefer dense vegetation and water bodies for shelter and foraging.
Diet: Pygmy hippos are herbivores, feeding on a diet consisting mainly of plants, including leaves, grasses, fruits, and aquatic vegetation. They are efficient browsers and can consume a significant amount of food in a day.
Fun Fact: Pygmy hippos are elusive and rarely seen in the wild, mainly due to their secretive nature and nocturnal habits. They are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath underwater for several minutes.
Pygmy hippos are small and solitary mammals resembling their larger relative, the common hippopotamus. They’re stocky, having a barrel-shaped body and a shorter snout. Pygmy hippos are critically endangered, primarily due to habitat loss and poaching.
41. Przewalski’s Horse
Scientific Name: Equus przewalskii
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 25-30 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Przewalski’s horses are native to the steppes and semi-deserts of central Asia, particularly Mongolia and China. They inhabit open grasslands and sparse woodlands.
Diet: Przewalski’s horses are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, herbs, shrubs, and other plant material. They are well adapted to grazing on coarse vegetation.
Fun Fact: Przewalski’s horses are the only surviving wild horse species. They were once extinct in the wild but were successfully reintroduced through captive breeding and conservation efforts.
Przewalski’s horses are compact and sturdy horses with a stocky build, a short mane, and a dun-colored coat. They have a wild and untamed appearance, reflecting their ancient lineage and resilience.
42. Pademelon
Scientific Name: Thylogale
Type of Animal: Mammal
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 8-10 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Pademelons are small marsupials found in the rainforests and woodlands of Australia and Papua New Guinea. They prefer dense vegetation and areas with access to water sources.
Diet: Pademelons are herbivores, feeding on a variety of plant material, including grasses, leaves, fruits, and fungi. They have specialized teeth for efficiently consuming vegetation.
Fun Fact: Pademelons are marsupials, meaning they carry their young in a pouch. The pouch is located on the belly and is used to protect and nurse their developing joeys.
Pademelons are compact and agile marsupials with a stocky build, short legs, and a long tail. They have a brown or grayish fur, often with lighter patches on the belly. Pademelons are primarily active during dusk and dawn.
43. Puff Adder
Scientific Name: Bitis arietans
Type of Animal: Reptile
Phylum: Chordata
Lifespan: 10-15 years (in the wild)
Habitat: Puff adders are found in various habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, including savannas, grasslands, forests, and semi-deserts. They can adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions.
Diet: Puff adders are carnivores, primarily feeding on small mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. They are ambush predators, relying on their venomous bite to immobilize their prey.
Fun Fact: Puff adders are responsible for a significant number of snakebite incidents in Africa. They have a well-deserved reputation for their aggressive nature and potent venom.
Puff adders are venomous snakes with a stout and heavy body, a broad triangular-shaped head, and distinct markings. They have a characteristic defensive display where they hiss loudly, inflate their bodies, and make sudden strikes if threatened.
44. Pistol Shrimp
Scientific Name: Alpheidae
Type of Animal: Crustacean
Phylum: Arthropoda
Lifespan: 1-2 years (depending on species)
Habitat: Pistol shrimps are found in various marine habitats worldwide, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky shores. They typically reside in burrows or crevices.
Diet: Pistol shrimps are carnivorous, preying on small invertebrates, fish, and other crustaceans. They are known for their unique hunting technique that involves creating a loud snapping sound with their specialized claw.
Fun Fact: Pistol shrimps have one oversized claw that is used as a powerful weapon. When the claw snaps shut, it creates a cavitation bubble that produces a loud popping sound and stunning shockwave, which can immobilize or kill their prey.
Pistol shrimps are small crustaceans with a slender body, a pair of large claws, and vibrant colors. They have a fascinating symbiotic relationship with gobies, where the shrimp provides shelter in its burrow, and the goby acts as a lookout for predators.
45. Praying Mantis
Scientific Name: Mantodea
Type of Animal: Insect
Phylum: Arthropoda
Lifespan: 6-12 months (depending on species)
Habitat: Praying mantises are found in diverse habitats worldwide, including forests, grasslands, gardens, and agricultural fields. They are well camouflaged and blend in with their surroundings.
Diet: Praying mantises are carnivorous, preying on a wide range of insects, including flies, crickets, grasshoppers, and even other mantises. They are highly skilled and agile hunters.
Fun Fact: Praying mantises are known for their unique predatory behavior, where they hold their front legs in a “praying” position, giving them their name. They are capable of rotating their heads 180 degrees to locate their prey accurately.
Praying mantises are fascinating insects with elongated bodies, elongated front legs, and triangular heads. They have excellent vision and are equipped with powerful grasping forelegs for capturing and immobilizing their prey.
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Conclusion
You’ve learned about some fantastic animals that start with the letter P. We’re sure you haven’t heard about many of them in this list. However, knowing about them must’ve been exciting and educational for you.
The animal kingdom is vast and in our list, many of the animals might have subspecies as well. And they might start with other letters that are to be enlisted in our other posts.
